Georgianna "Georgie" E. Stebnitz

Georgie passed away peacefully at home, leaving behind a legacy of love, joy, and a deep connection to the natural world. From a young age, Georgie developed a fascination with nature—especially birds—a passion she shared with her mother. She often marveled at how robins built their nests in her beloved ficus tree, which grew so tall it reached toward the ceiling. That tree had started as a small plant from her mother-in-law. The sight of the robins nesting each year reminded her of life’s constant cycles—renewal, continuity, and the quiet beauty of nature.

Georgie was a woman whose love for animals and the natural world was matched only by her deep compassion for others. Throughout her life, she was guided by a love for humanity, always striving to make the world a better place through kindness, generosity, and understanding.

Her greatest joy was her family. She and her beloved husband of 65 years, Gary, shared a bond built on love and mutual respect. Together, they found immense happiness in watching their grandchildren grow, often reflecting on the special moments they shared. Georgie was a devoted grandmother, delighting in every story, game, or quiet moment spent with them. Her love for her grandchildren was a source of endless pride and fulfillment—they were the light of her life.

She also cherished the quiet moments spent with her dog, Abbie—a Yorkie and Cockapoo mix—who was a devoted companion for over 11 years. Their daily walks, along with her love of gardening, brought Georgie peace and contentment. She found joy in nurturing her plants and creating beauty in her surroundings, turning her home into a sanctuary of love and life.

Georgie’s life was further enriched by her dedication to education. A proud graduate of the University of Wisconsin–Madison’s School of Education, she found deep fulfillment in her teaching career. As an educator, she inspired countless students to develop a lifelong love of learning and mentored many teachers along the way. Her influence extended far beyond the classroom, leaving a lasting mark on all who had the privilege of knowing or working with her.

Music was another constant in Georgie’s life. She found great joy in singing in the church choir. Whether through music or simply through her warm, gentle presence, she shared her joy for life with everyone around her.

Georgie was known for her compassion, curiosity, and constant desire to stay informed. She loved to read, often immersing herself in books and documentaries to keep learning about the world. She read the newspaper from front to back each day, and if she missed a day, she made a point of catching up the next. She was deeply engaged with current events, well-versed in world affairs, and never shy about sharing her thoughtful, often passionate, opinions. Over the years, she wrote dozens of letters to the editor, always striving to contribute meaningfully to public conversation. Her kindness and generosity knew no bounds, and she will always be remembered for her caring heart, sharp mind, and the love she gave so freely.

Georgie was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Gary; her son, Andrew; her parents, Martha and Floyd; and her brother, Mike. She leaves behind her children: Kathleen (Mark), Michael (Mikey), and Chris (Rie); and her beloved grandchildren: Matthew, Ryan, Beau, and Luca. She also leaves behind extended family and many friends who were touched by her unwavering love and kindness. Her legacy of compassion, joy, and love will live on in all who knew her.

Georgie believed in the significance of cardinals, seeing them as signs that loved ones who had passed were still with us in spirit. To her, robins held a similar meaning—symbols of life continuing in a delicate, beautiful way and reminders that those we love are never truly gone.

In honor of Georgie and her husband Gary, who passed away in late April, a visitation will be held at Cress Funeral Home on Friday, June 27, from 12 to 3 p.m., where family and friends will gather to celebrate their lives.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made in Georgie’s memory to the McBurney Disability Resource Center (University of Wisconsin - Madison), an office within Student Affairs committed to creating an accessible and inclusive educational experience for students with disability.

McBurney Disability Center

https://secure.supportuw.org/give/?id=a14aee7f-70dc-49b1-af3a-54efc52d0ebd

Cress Funeral & Cremation Service

3610 Speedway Road, Madison

(608) 238-3434